Akpabio Pushes For Homegrown Arms Production, Stronger African Security Cooperation

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on African governments to prioritise indigenous defence manufacturing, warning against excessive reliance on foreign suppliers for military equipment amid persistent security threats across the continent.

Akpabio made the appeal on Monday in Lagos while representing President Bola Tinubu at the opening of the 2026 Africa International Defence Exhibition (AFRIDEX).

He said developing domestic defence industries would enable African countries to build their technological capacity, strengthen military preparedness and reduce dependence on imported equipment.

The Senate President also advocated greater collaboration among African nations to tackle terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other transnational crimes that continue to undermine peace and stability.

He underscored the need for coordinated efforts to secure the Gulf of Guinea, noting the importance of maritime security to regional trade and economic growth.

Akpabio further called for increased investment in emerging defence technologies, including artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, to help security agencies respond to increasingly sophisticated threats.

He identified Africa’s youthful population as a potential driver of innovation, urging governments to invest in skills development and technical expertise that could support the growth of local defence industries.

On Nigeria’s security needs, he emphasised the importance of equipping the Armed Forces with the necessary tools and resources to combat threats and protect the country.

AFRIDEX 2026 brings together stakeholders in the defence and security sectors, offering opportunities for partnerships, technology exchange and investment in Africa’s defence industry.

The exhibition is taking place against the backdrop of continuing efforts to improve the continent’s security architecture and expand local capacity to produce military equipment and related technologies.